Gerard Butler’s movie Gods of Egypt is currently streaming on Netflix, giving viewers a chance to see the actor in a spectacular fantasy setting. Released in 2016, the film pairs Butler with Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, known for his role in Game of Thrones, in a visually striking tale set in ancient Egyptian mythology. Despite its initial struggles at the box office, the film has gained popularity on streaming platforms where Butler’s presence in action-packed roles continues to draw an audience.
Butler, who often stars in mid-range thrillers and action movies, here takes on a larger-than-life villain role that complements his reputation for intense, adventurous performances. Fans of his work in 300 and other action films will find this movie a chance to see him in an epic, mythologically fueled battle.
The Story Behind ‘Gods of Egypt’ and Its Characters
Gods of Egypt imagines a fantastical version of ancient Egypt where gods walk among humans. Gerard Butler plays Set, the bitter god who kills his brother Osiris and blinds his nephew Horus, portrayed by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau. Horus, with the help of a determined young man played by Brenton Thwaites, embarks on a mission to reclaim his sight and defeat Set’s oppressive reign over Egypt. The film’s story blends high fantasy with action, spotlighting themes of family rivalry and the struggle for power.
The cast also includes Chadwick Boseman as Thoth, the god of wisdom and mathematics; Élodie Yung, known for her role in Daredevil, as Hathor; and Geoffrey Rush as Ra, the sun god. Boseman’s involvement was notably significant, as he welcomed the chance to portray an Egyptian deity despite the film’s controversial casting choices, aiming to represent African heritage within the mythology.
Visual Style and Production Highlights
The movie features a lavish visual style, with elaborate golden sets and costumes bringing its mythological world to life. The gods appear much larger than mortals, achieved through forced perspective techniques similar to those used in Lord of the Rings, enhancing their supernatural presence. These deities also transform into towering forms, donning glowing armor, wings, and heads of animals, creating dramatic, superhero-like figures.
Though Gods of Egypt struggled in theaters and faced criticism over casting decisions by director Alex Proyas, it has since found a new audience on Netflix. Its maximalist design and action sequences make it an engaging watch for those interested in fantasy adventure films and Butler’s diverse filmography.
Significance and Continuing Appeal of the Film
While the film did not meet box office expectations, its availability on streaming platforms like Netflix enables it to reach wider audiences and be reassessed beyond initial reviews. Gerard Butler’s role as Set showcases his ability to carry high-energy, villainous performances within a fantasy context, and the film offers a visually rich experience rarely seen in similar mid-tier productions.
For viewers who appreciate epic storytelling combined with intense action and mythological themes, Gods of Egypt is an opportunity to explore a unique blend of adventure and fantasy, reaffirming Butler’s place as a versatile actor in today’s streaming era.
“I was thankful for the controversy. I expected it, and that was one of the reasons I signed on — so that, as a Black man, I could ensure that someone of African descent was at least playing Egypt’s god of wisdom and mathematics.” —Chadwick Boseman, Actor
